sneak preview

noun

1. a preview of a motion picture, often shown in addition to an announced film, in order to observe the reaction of the audience.

sneak preview

noun

1. a screening of a film at an unexpected time to test audience reaction before its release

Word History and Origins

Origin of sneak preview¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Idioms and Phrases

An advance showing of something, as in It was supposed to be bad luck but she gave the bridegroom a sneak preview of her wedding gown. This expression originated in the 1930s for a single public showing of a motion picture before its general release, and in succeeding decades was transferred to other undertakings.

Example Sentences

I was lucky enough to see him at a party in central London recently, where I got a sneak preview of the new album - a blend of his signature pop-punk and emotional depth.

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I've had a sneak preview of the new series, which starts on Wednesday, and can tell you that the contestants are thrown in at the deep end from the start.

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I've had a sneak preview of the new series, and can tell you the scenery is absolutely breathtaking.

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I've had a sneak preview, and can tell you that the first episode alone is fraught with tension.

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I’ve had a sneak preview, and can confirm there are a lot of parallels - from the awkward group meals, to the tearful revelations of why they really, really need the money.

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Related Words

• world premiere